Answers to your questions from Michael Mintz, Producer
"What are the educational and work backgrounds of the team members?"
The team members vary significantly in their educational and work backgrounds. We have three doctors on the team: one medical expert, one demographer and one psychologist. They have been spending their time determining the science behind this Blue Zone. We have several journalists, ranging from writers to producers to photographers. Many of them have college or graduate degrees in various forms of journalism. We also have a couple experts in video production and editing. I, on the other hand, am here mainly based on my experience living and working in Costa Rica, my language abilities and my event production experience.
The main point that I will take away from the interactions I have had with the centenarians is based on the fact that every single one I have met seemed to be an enthusiastic, optimistic individual. I personally believe that a positive frame of mind, combined with a low-stresslifestyle, can add years to your life. Being from a culture that often defines success in terms of money, power and possessions, it has been wonderful to meet such happy people. Many of these people are living in poverty, but they define themselves and their lives through their families, communities and religious beliefs.
"Are you enjoying yourself as a Quest team member?"
Yes. Working on the project has been tough, though. The work is difficult, and sometimes stressful. Many team members have had to work nearly around the clock to make the project function. Luckily, there is a good sense of support between team members, which helps us all get through the challenging moments.
The highlight of the job for me has been the interactions I have had with the local people. The people of this community are incredibly warm and helpful and in so many ways have opened their homes to our team. Being a part of the Blue Zones team has provided such great opportunities to interact with strangers, get invited to Nicoyans’ homes, meet centenarians and hear their stories.
Are there considerably more industries and other sources of pollution there as there are here?
In this part of the country there are virtually no industries, and most of the pollution comes from the cars and trucks, which seem to emit much nastier fumes than vehicles in the United States.
In the capital city of San Jose, and the city sprawl that surrounds it, the air is comparatively contaminated. There are a fair amount of industries, but the majority of the fumes you inhale walking around the streets of the city seem to come directly from the cars and city buses. Another sad fact about this country is that the act of littering is not as frowned upon as it is in the United States. It is not uncommon to see somebody toss a candy wrapper or plastic bottle out the window of a passing car or bus. I have been impressed, however, regarding the cleanliness of the village we are staying in. I think the people from the country appreciate the natural beauty of the region a little more than the city folk do.
If you have a question for the team or about the Quest, email us at
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We'll add some of the questions and answers we receive in this new feature. Although we appreciate all the questions we receive, we are sorry that we can only post a sampling.
